Welcome from the Golden West College President
One of the most enjoyable things about being the College President at Golden West College is the view from my office. From this corner office, which some call the “fish bowl”, one can look across the whole Campus Quad where new trees have recently been planted. The Quad is an intersection of student, faculty and staff life in motion. People are on their way to classes, to register, to talk to a teacher, or get tutoring. Their interactions are spirited and animated. They are engaged in dialogs or sitting on a bench reviewing notes just before the next class. The diversity on campus is striking and something to celebrate – I am reminded that here, everyone belongs. There are so many choices and so many services to help our students succeed.
There is a rhythm I have come to notice as well. In the mornings the pace is faster, and at the start of each semester more erratic; there is almost a buzz as people find their way and their place. Around lunch time, the pace starts to slow, conversations seem longer, and people more engaging. With some frequency someplace in the Quad, you can see a person or two playing music on their guitars, or sharing information on their iPod’s or cell phones, and of course you can spot a study group or two. The campus calms as the afternoon lengthens, and then around 6pm the pace starts all over again as the night folks arrive. It’s hard to remember that there are almost as many students here in the evening as in the morning, but it is so.
The special thing about this college is the people. One thing I have noticed about college life over the years is that two things can change you forever: one is what you learn, and the other is who you meet along the way. That is why we pride ourselves on a friendly staff and a vibrant faculty. We know that you are the reason we are here, and we want to serve you with kindness and professionalism. If you ever need some help, I encourage you to give us a call, visit a counselor, stop by an office or send us an e-mail, and we will be glad to help you succeed at GWC. After all, our motto is “Oceans of Opportunity.”
The reason we have chosen the ocean as part of our theme is location, location, location! It would be hard to find a better place to study and play than Surf City (Huntington Beach), California. Our park-like campus is safe, serene, and spacious. GWC provides you with wonderful facilities – a contemporary student center, innovative student success center, up to-date computer technologies, well maintained sports venues, advanced labs, and plenty of parking spaces. It doesn’t get any better than this, and that’s why I welcome you to Golden West College where you will find “Oceans of Opportunity.”
Wes Bryan
President of Golden West College
Welcome from the Golden West College Associated Students President 2008-09
Welcome to Golden West College!
When I first came to Golden West College, it was one of the most exciting experiences of my life. Whenever I needed guidance, there were always friendly students, professors, faculty, staff, and administrators to point me in the right direction. I can guarantee each and every student that you will gain a better perspective and appreciation when you hear the words “for the students,” because at Golden West College everyone is here to help you.
By attending Golden West College, you have taken another step into a new chapter of your life. Whatever your educational goal may be, our campus is filled with faculty, staff, and administrators ready and willing to assist you.
During your journey at this campus, take advantage of the many opportunities Golden West College has to offer you. Our student services—Tutoring Center, Financial Aid, Counseling Center, Student Health Center, Transfer Center, EOPS/CARE Program, Associated Students, and Learning Resource Center—are designed to help you accomplish the goals you have set for yourself at Golden West College.
On behalf of the Associated Students of Golden West College, we welcome you and
wish you an amazing year!
David Lopez
President of the Associated Students GWC 2008/09